----- Original Message ----- From: info@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx To: boacosta@xxxxxxxxxxx Sent: Friday, September 11, 2009 2:10 PM Subject: Michael Hingson's September Newsletter Today is a special day for this country and for the families that were personally affected by the tragedy of 9-11. For me, this day is especially significant, as many of you know. Eight years ago today, along with my Guide Dog Roselle, I was able to lead a group of people safely down from the 78th floor, escaping Tower Two just moments as it collapsed less than 100 yards away from me. By the world's standard, this was an unlikely accomplishment for someone blind from birth. The truth of the matter is quite the reverse, as the skills and abilities I've developed in response to being blind gave me the ability to survive and help others in the process. Trust and teamwork with my Guide Dog Roselle, developed through persistent training and leadership, enabled us to work together and stay focused. The lessons from 9-11 are in some ways even more relevant today, as people are confronted by unexpected and relentless economic devastation and loss on many fronts. Today's economic challenges have 'attacked' what most Americans have considered 'safe,' their home values, retirement plans, their careers and even family life. Surviving this experience has opened up new areas of confidence in my own life, propelling me to share my story of overcoming challenges to motivate others to do the same. Out of the ashes comes hope. All of us alive today have a responsibility to move forward, to fight the challenges and make a difference in unity. Here are a few areas where progress is being made to educate, uplift and empower: Louis Braille Coin Update: Braille literacy remains a critical issue in this country. I urge you to visit the site and purchase a coin, which ranges from $33.95 - $41.95. Giving them as gifts also gives you the opportunity to share the cause with others. Please do so today, as they may not be available after the first of the year. Visit: http://www.nfb.org/nfb/Louis_Braille_Commemorative_Coin.asp KNFB Mobile Reader Update: As the National Director of Sales for the KNFB Mobile Reader, I am glad to report that awareness of this powerful assistive device is spreading, everywhere from college campuses to among those losing their site to macular degeneration. For more information and to purchase a KNFB Mobile Reader, visit: http://knfbreader.michaelhingson.com/ National Speaking Schedule: My travels as keynote speaker are leading me across the country, addressing diverse audiences on various topics including Teamwork, Inclusion and now, more than ever, "Beyond Surviving to Thriving." Please concact me for availability. I also work with small groups and private trainings. Eight years ago, we united as a nation in response to unprecedented attacks on our values, beliefs and freedom. Today, we have a similar opportunity to unite and help each other on many different levels. I am honored to be able to share encouragement with you and thank you for staying connected. Sincerely, Mike Hingson 415-827-4084 www.michaelhingson.com Click here to unsubscribe